To earn accreditation, a hospital must undergo a rigorous site visit and review by representatives from The Joint Commission. Expert surveyors evaluate compliance with hospital standards in areas such as emergency management, environment of care, infection prevention and control, leadership and medication management. Surveyors also conduct interviews and record onsite observations.

“Accreditation is a powerful statement to the community about our health system's dedication to high-quality patient care,” Maxwell said. “It demonstrates our commitment to help people live better lives through better health.”

The Joint Commission, which has accredited hospitals for more than 60 years, certifies nearly 21,000 health care organizations and programs in the United States.

Its hospital standards are developed in consultation with health care experts and providers, measurement experts and patients. The standards are informed by scientific literature and expert consensus to help hospitals measure, assess and improve performance.

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Tidelands Health is the largest health care provider in Georgetown, Horry and Williamsburg counties. With three hospitals and more than 50 outpatient locations that stretch from Andrews to North Myrtle Beach, Tidelands Health is helping people across the Tidelands region live better lives through better health.